The Black Sea is becoming increasingly deadly for merchant crews as suspected Russian drone attacks hit commercial vessels and push security risks closer to NATO territory. At least six commercial ships were targeted by uncrewed aerial and surface drones within 10 days in October 2026, with strikes reaching the waters of NATO members Bulgaria and Romania.
The attacks have left seafarers dead or missing and raised concerns over whether vital shipping routes can remain safe as the conflict spreads closer to alliance territory. Ten crew members are presumed dead aboard the Alfa Watan, while 11 are missing from the HS Dignity and seven from the Wine Trader.
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